*Nairobi, November 6, 2025* — The absence of a functional Parents and Teachers Association (PTA) has reignited tensions at Parklands Baptist School, where parents are protesting a proposed 20 percent increase in school fees for the 2025–2026 academic year.
The parents accuse the administration and Board of Management (BoM) of making unilateral financial decisions without consultation or accountability.
During a tense parents’ meeting on Tuesday, guardians expressed anger over what they termed as “opaque governance” and disregard for stakeholder engagement. They said the BoM failed to attend the meeting or send representatives, deepening mistrust between parents and school management.
Ms. Doreen, a parent of four pupils, said the timing and manner of the announcement had caused panic among families. “We were informed of the 20 percent increase just as the term was ending, without prior notice or justification. Families are already struggling, and this move feels insensitive,” she lamented.
Parents argue that the fee hike contravenes the spirit of participatory governance outlined in the Basic Education Act, which mandates the establishment of a PTA in every institution. For over ten years, they claim, the administration has resisted forming one despite repeated requests.
“For too long, we’ve pushed for a PTA to promote dialogue and transparency, but the school has ignored us,” said Mr. Mbaya, one of the parents leading the pushback.
Dr. Mumo, another parent, urged the school to adopt open financial discussions rather than imposing decisions. “We understand that running costs are rising, but this should be discussed transparently. The school can explore sustainable solutions—like building its own swimming pool instead of outsourcing lessons at high costs,” he suggested.
He also called for a clear distinction between the church and the school’s management, warning that blurred lines could lead to misuse of funds. “The church should oversee, not administer, school operations,” he said.
Parents’ representatives, led by Mr. Mburu, accused the BoM of operating in isolation, claiming it had not held a single joint meeting with parents in three years. “The board communicates through memos and rarely engages. Most of its members don’t even have children in the school,” he said.
The parents are now demanding a forensic audit of the school’s finances for the past three years and the immediate establishment of a PTA to promote accountability. They have also appealed to Parklands Baptist Church leadership to intervene and convene an Annual General Meeting.
“Our stand is firm,” said Mr. Mbaya. “No fee hike without transparency. We love this school and want it to thrive but with integrity and dialogue.”
